Name: Lazy Lasagna Skillet for Moms Who Don’t Want to Layer Noodles
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 2 cups marinara sauce; 8 ounces uncooked lasagna noodles, broken into pieces; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cups water; 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

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Hey y’all! If you crave all the cheesy, saucy comfort of classic lasagna but can’t bear the thought of layering noodles or washing multiple pans, this Lazy Lasagna Skillet for Moms Who Don’t Want to Layer Noodles is your new weeknight hero. It’s a cozy, one-pan meal loaded with ooey-gooey cheese, hearty ground beef, and tender pasta—ready in 30 minutes! Perfect for busy evenings, cozy family dinners, or even casual get-togethers. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Lazy Lasagna Skillet for Moms Who Don’t Want to Layer Noodles

Super quick—on the table in just 30 minutes, from prep to plate.
One-pan wonder—minimal dishes and easy cleanup.

All the classic flavors of lasagna without the hassle of layering.
Customizable—swap in your favorite proteins or veggies.
Kid-approved and family-friendly for picky eaters!

Lazy Lasagna Skillet for Moms Who Don’t Want to Layer Noodles: Ingredients

1 lb (450g) ground beef (or ground turkey)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (24 oz/680g) jar marinara sauce
2 cups (16 oz/450g) ricotta cheese

2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
8 oz (225g) uncooked mafalda, rotini, or broken lasagna noodles

2 cups (480ml) water or low-sodium beef broth
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper
Fresh basil or parsley, for serving (optional)

How to Make Lazy Lasagna Skillet for Moms Who Don’t Want to Layer Noodles

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Aromatics

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.

Add the diced onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon (about 5 minutes).
Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Build the Skillet Lasagna Base

Stir in the marinara sauce, water or broth, uncooked pasta, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to maintain a gentle simmer.
Cover and cook for 15-18 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most liquid is absorbed.

Step 3: Add the Creamy Cheese Layers

Dollop ricotta cheese over the skillet mixture.
Sprinkle with half the mozzarella and all the Parmesan cheese.
Gently stir to swirl the cheeses through, keeping pockets of ricotta intact for those classic lasagna bites.

Step 4: Broil and Serve

Top with the remaining mozzarella.
Transfer the skillet to the oven and broil for 2-3 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve hot!

Notes: Tips for the Perfect Lazy Lasagna Skillet for Moms Who Don’t Want to Layer Noodles

If your skillet isn’t oven-safe, skip the broil step and simply cover until cheese melts.
Use no-boil or quick-cooking noodles for an even faster meal (details here).
Add extra water or broth if the mixture thickens too much before the pasta is cooked through.

Variations on Lazy Lasagna Skillet for Moms Who Don’t Want to Layer Noodles

Veggie Version: Swap ground beef for sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach.
Cheesy Chicken Skillet: Use shredded rotisserie chicken and a creamy Alfredo sauce in place of beef and marinara.
Spicy Sausage Lasagna: Substitute Italian sausage and add a pinch of red chili flakes for heat!

Required Equipment for Lazy Lasagna Skillet for Moms Who Don’t Want to Layer Noodles

Large oven-safe skillet (12-inch recommended)
Wooden spoon or spatula
Knife and cutting board

Measuring cups and spoons

Storage Instructions for Lazy Lasagna Skillet for Moms Who Don’t Want to Layer Noodles

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to prevent drying.

Freeze portions for up to 2 months—thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Serving Suggestions for Lazy Lasagna Skillet for Moms Who Don’t Want to Layer Noodles

Pair with a crisp Caesar salad or steamed green beans for balance.
Serve with crusty garlic bread for the ultimate comfort meal (garlic bread ideas).

Top with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a restaurant-style presentation.

Pro Tips for the Best Lazy Lasagna Skillet for Moms Who Don’t Want to Layer Noodles

Grate your own mozzarella for the gooeyest, meltiest cheese pull.
Let the skillet rest before serving so the sauce thickens and flavors meld (here’s why it matters).

Don’t overcook the pasta—taste a piece at the 15-minute mark and stop when it’s al dente.

FAQ: Lazy Lasagna Skillet for Moms Who Don’t Want to Layer Noodles

Can I use gluten-free noodles?: Absolutely! Just check the cooking time as some gluten-free pasta cooks more quickly.
Is it possible to make this vegetarian?: Yes, simply skip the beef and boost flavor with extra veggies and a vegetarian-friendly marinara.
Can I prepare this Lazy Lasagna Skillet ahead of time?: You can prep the skillet up to the cheese step, refrigerate, and broil just before serving for fresh, bubbly cheese.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

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Lazy Lasagna Skillet for Moms Who Don’t Want to Layer Noodles